National Centre for Archaeological Research
In 1975, the functions of the former Institute of Archaeology, which was
the successor of the Dutch Oudheidkundige Dienst (see the historical
synopsis), were divided into two: (a) preservation and conservation, and
(b) research.
The Directorate for the Preservation and Restoration of Historical
and Archaeological Monuments took over preservation and conservation,
whilst research is now the responsibility of the National Centre for Archaeological
Research. Archaeological research activities are concerned with
Indonesian cultures of all periods of history, from prehistory onwards.
For practical reasons, the programme of activities is divided into four
fields: prehistory, classical archaeology, archaeology of the Islamic period
and archaeometrics.
The objectives are not merely to reconstruct Indonesian cultural
history and to develop new concepts and theories, but also to exhibit
ancient and indigenous cultures to the public, to stimulate creativity and
provide a solid basis for the search for cultural identity.
The centre is also conducting excavations in various sites all over
Indonesia. At the provincial level, it is assisted by two offices of archaeological
research, in Yogyakarta and Bali.
As Figure 2 shows, all the branches, directorates and centres already
cited maintain close co-operation with various departments, directoratesgeneral
and other institutions at the provincial level with the local administration
having general responsibility for everything in its area. Good
relations with the provincial administration are therefore a necessity for
all departments with activities in the provinces. It is here that the various
provincial representatives of the departments have a role to play, with the
provincial branches of the technical directorates-general responsible for
the implementation of their policies and programmes. The representative
of the Department of Education and Culture is also responsible for coordination
between all the offices and institutions operating in his province
which come under the aegis of the department.
Close co-operation also exists between offices and institutions of the
Department of Education and Culture and representatives of other
departments in the provinces. Almost every department is represented
in the provinces. In some cases, directorates-general have their own
representation as well, as those of the Directorates-General of Tourism and
Small Industries (see Fig. 2).
Co-operation between those representatives consists, for instance, of
joint programmes in arts and crafts exhibitions, dance and music festivals
and organization of cultural contests.
In promotion of cultural sites and monuments for tourism there is
always close co-operation between the Directorates-General of Tourism
and of Culture, thus ameliorating, the negative effects of tourism on